Homeowners struggle to choose between bathtubs and showers due to their respective pros and cons. Whereas many others plan to replace their bathtubs with showers. But the question that is left unsaid is which one is a safer and cost-effective option? This debate of bathtub vs shower is never going to end until you see some facts.
While bathtubs offer a relaxed bathing experience, showers are space savers. Choosing the one can be confusing, but not difficult with the Best Home Remodeling CT guide.
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of bathtubs and showers installation in your new home. Bathtub vs shower, which is more cost-effective and needs less maintenance over time? So, let’s begin to find the best bathing option for kids and elders.
Key Parts of a Bathtub
It’s important to understand the parts for proper cost estimation:
Basin
A basin comes in various shapes and styles to collect water for bathing purposes. So, you can opt for freestanding, clawfoot, walk-in, and corner bathtubs. They all differ in their shape, style, and cost. Many homeowners prefer to install classic tubs with sleek designs to be on trend all the time.
Tub Spout
The tub spout works like a tap to control the water into the tub. These tub spouts contain a diverter that you can pull to block water into the tub and create pressure for the shower water supply.
Slip-on tube spouts can be installed by twisting the tube around the water pipe. While screw ones require some equipemnt for proper fixation.
Drain
How will you remove the dirty water from the tub after bathing? Here comes the drain system that helps to remove water after you are done bathing. This consists of a main drain on the base of the tub and a secondary one on the vertical inward side of the basin.
The main drain drops the water into the p-shaped pipe so that the sewer gases don’t get back into the tub to create a dirty smell.
Overflow
Sometimes we accidentally fill the basin with water to an unusual level until it overflows. So, a lid on the sides of the tub works to control the level of water. You just have to open the lid to drain water to a safe level for your kids.
Benefits of a Bathtub
Is a bathtub necessary in a home? Bathtubs aren’t just bound to provide relaxation to muscles; they also add value to your bathroom.
- Relaxation and Stress Relief: Many people prefer to fill the tub with warm water to relax and release their stress.
- Muscle and Joint Relief: When people relax in a tub filled with warm water, it relieves their stiffness in muscles and joints.
- Better Sleep: Taking a deep bath before getting to bed not only relaxes your body but also your mind from exhausting thoughts. So, you get better sleep and wake up in an active and healthy mood.
- Fun for Kids: Kids love to collect water as a fun activity. If you have children at your home, then bathtubs will be the best option to cheer them up.
- Luxury and Home Value: Choose the stylish bathtub design that trends all the time to increase the value of your home.
Drawbacks of a Bathtub
- Takes Up Space: Bathtubs aren’t suitable for small homes because they take up extra space.
- Time-Consuming: You have to find some time to fill the bathtub first to take a bath, which sounds quite a hassle.
- Can Be Slippery: When you move out of the tub, water spills everywhere around the tub. It not only creates a mess but also leads to serious injuries to your kids. Therefore, you’ve to stay very careful while kids are around the bathtub.
- Harder to Clean: It can be hard to clean due to its shape and drainage system at the bottom.
- Costly Installation: Bathtubs come with a lot of parts that are costly to purchase and install.
Key Parts of a Shower
Here are the parts of the shower that work together to improve your bathing experience:
Shower Head
There are multiple styles of shower heads, from handheld showers to fixed ones. You can install any style according to your bathroom style and priorities.
Shower Pan
A shower pan is not like an ordinary base that is installed only for style. Instead, it protects your floor from mold and water damage. It’s the base where you stand while bathing to avoid slipping on the floor.
Shower Valve and Cartridge
While the shower valve adjusts the water flow, the Cartridge helps to set the water temperature. You just have to rotate to set them to the optimum temperature and flow.
Water Supply Pipe
As the name indicates, it supplies water from tanks to your shower pipe and then to the shower heads.
Shower Diverter
Like the bathtub diverters, they also change the water direction from the bathtub to the shower pipes. However, it is usually installed over bathtubs to push water into the shower heads.
Benefits of a Shower
- Space-Saving: Unlike bathtubs, showers take up less space and provide a spacious look to your bathroom.
- Hygienic: Additionally, you don’t have to sit in the dirty water tub, as it washes the soap right after applying.
- Saves Time: You don’t have to wait for the tub to fill, just rotate the valve and here you go.
Drawbacks of a Shower
- Water Splash: Shower heads spill water like rain on the walls and damage the paint.
- Not Ideal for Kids: Although they are great for elders, they don’t fit kids’ tastes.
- Less Relaxing: You can’t soak your body in warm water for relaxation, as water continuously flows in showers.
Cost Comparison Between Bathtubs and Showers
The estimated cost to replace a bathtub with a shower varies, but here are the installation prices:
| Feature | Bathtub | Shower |
| Installation cost | $1,200 – $5,000 | $800 – $3,000 |
| Maintenance Cost | Moderate to High | Low to Moderate |
| Water Usage Cost | Higher (40–70 gallons/use) | Lower (20–25 gallons/use) |
| Space Needed | Requires more space | Saves space, so ideal for small bathrooms |
| Home Value Impact | Adds value | Modern appeal, thus preferred for quick usage |
Is the Shower and Bathtub Combination an Ideal Choice?
Although bathtub vs shower for seniors has multiple benefits and drawbacks, you can install both. The shower and bathtub combo provides a modern look to your bathroom space. So, why not opt for a combo method that is safe for the needs of kids and elders?
Which Option is Better For Your Home In The Long Run?
To end the bathtub vs shower war, you should choose the one that benefits you in the long term. Showers save your money and space, but a bathtub offers peace of mind. Thus, select the option that suits your budget and bathroom size.
Final Thoughts
Should I replace my bathtub with a shower or keep it? As we have discussed the benefits of bathtub vs shower, it’s time to make a move. Take time to analyze and understand what you need and then finalize the shower/bathtub for your bathroom. You can also discuss it with professionals for suggestions and recommendations.
At Best Home Remodeling CT, we offer bathtub and shower installation, repair, and remodeling services. So, whether you are installing a shower or a bath, contact us for a smooth finish!
